Mindfulness is the practice of learning to be present. It is also beneficial for calming the physical state of the body and quietening the mind. Whether you’re new to writing or have been writing for a while and are looking for a way to rejuvenate your approach, this day of guided mindfulness and writing exercises, led by two experienced facilitators, will refresh and enhance your writing skills and leave you with a simple toolkit that you can use in your everyday practice. Alongside focused writing exercises, you will learn: the importance of breath work and how to calm your breathing; how reducing the mind chatter can help centre your writing focus; a fifteen second calming technique; visualisation guidance and advice; short and simple brain gym exercises. All levels welcome. Please bring a packed lunch.

Bernie McGill is the author of two novels: The Watch House and The Butterfly Cabinet and of a short story collection, Sleepwalkers. She has worked for twenty-five years as a creative writing facilitator, is a Writer in Schools with Poetry Ireland and a Professional Mentor with the Irish Writers’ Centre. www.berniemcgill.com

Michelle Gibb is a poet, life coach and yoga teacher whose work has been published locally by A New Ulster and nationally by United Press.  She is qualified in kinesiology, hatha yoga and energy medicine and has been practicing yoga, mindfulness and meditation as well as facilitating groups for over ten years. www.michymodo.com

To book, see this event in the Aspects Festival programme, or contact Bangor Visitor Information Centre Tel: 028 9127 0069 (Mon,Tue, Thur & Fri 9.15am-5pm, Wed 10am-5pm & Sat 10am-4pm) Email bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

or Ards Visitor Information Centre: Tel 028 9182 6846 (Monday- Friday 9-5 pm, Saturday 9.30-5pm) Email ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk